As airlines make some attempt to make money, they have begun to cut capacity. Not only have they cut frequencies on flights, like Las Vegas to Phoenix, but they have begun to cut service to regional airports.
Recently, Delta Air Lines ended all service to State College, PA. Charles Welch, director of the Centre County Airport Authority, commented, “the absence of Delta … will hurt the airport financially, such as in the landing fees it takes in and the number of rental cars leased out,” (http://www.centredaily.com/news/local/story/674255.html) Many regional airports have constructed new terminal buildings and parking garages that will not be used due to the rise in fuel. So why do airlines end service to these cities? The routes are unprofitable. State College is not a popular destination. The reason most people go there is for Penn State University and the famous ice cream (which I do not recommend). I applaud Delta for running the route up to September 1st. Most college students move into their dorms sometime in late August.
Regional airports are usually located in small cities. Therefore, less people = lower capacity on flights, unless it’s a huge vacation spot. To put it simply, routes to regional airports do not produce high profits or any profit to large airlines. However regional airlines with fuel-sipping aircraft, like Piedmont Airlines and their Dehaviland Dash 8, can make a decent pay, if they’re the only ones on the route. (Like Piedmont’s service from Philadelphia to State College operating as US Airways Express.) So I say keep regional airlines in regional airports.
Regional airports are great for passengers. Why? Delays; they usually are non-existent at regional airports. Typically, the service is far better. I’ve found that people are frendlier at smaller airports. Another plus is that baggage claim delivers your bags in a timely mannger.
Airlines will be ending service to regional airports. We can’t change that. They need to make a profit. However if you live in a small city with a regional airport, I suggest that you use it. You’ll find it a much better experience than major international airports.
